Turmeric is a rhizomatous herb that is closely related to ginger, and is native to the tropical regions of south Asia. It is used extensively by the communities in these regions for a wide range of uses. Its chief use is as a spice and a food additive mainly in curries, where its rhizome (root) is dried and ground to produce an orange-yellow powder with a heavy earthy taste, slightly bitter and slightly hot flavor.
Other Uses of Turmeric
Apart from being used as a spice, turmeric is used as a dye and a food color due to its orange-yellow appearance. It can lend itself to a wide variety of applications within the food industry as a colorant. It is used as a coloring agent in foods such as canned beverages, dairy products such as ice cream and yoghurt, baked products among others.
Turmeric Even Recommended by Ayurveda
The medicinal value of turmeric was known to ancient civilizations, where it was used mainly as an antiseptic for burns, bruises and cuts. It has also been recommended by the Ayurveda as an excellent antiseptic that can be used to combat various types of ailments. The Side effects of turmeric are not clearly documented, due to a lack of extensive research on them. However, judging from its widespread popularity, the Side effects of turmeric are minimal, since any adverse side effects would have come to light a long time ago. This is not to say that the Side effects of turmeric are nonexistent. In fact, there have been reports on the Side effects of turmeric, but these reports are usually rare and not of an extreme nature.
Side Effects of Turmeric
GIT Disturbances: Among the Side effects of turmeric that have been reported so far include gastrointestinal disturbances such as stomach upsets nausea and constipation.
Allergic Reaction as a Result of Turmeric: Other Side effects of turmeric that have been documented include allergic reactions to turmeric. In the case of topical application of turmeric to the skin, these allergic reactions are characterized by irritation, localized swelling and the appearance of rashes on the point of contact between the skin and the turmeric, which acts as an allergen which triggers the allergy.
Asthma Attacks: Other possible allergic Side effects of turmeric include full blown asthma attacks, difficulty breathing and wheezing sounds whenever breathing. This is normally the case if one is exposed to turmeric powder and develops an allergy to it. Sneezing, running nose and swollen, watery eyes may also be indicators of turmeric powder allergy.
Arrhythmias: Intake of turmeric in an excess of more than 1500 mg can lead to abnormal heart rhythms. Though the studies have not be conclusive, but one should avoid high doses of turmeric.
Damage to Liver: Although the studies have not been conclusive, there are indicators that one of the Side effects of turmeric is liver problems. Studies done on animals indicated that turmeric can cause liver toxicity, although no such effect has been noted o human subjects.
Risk to Pregnancy: Turmeric is extremely dangerous if taken directly during pregnancy. It can lead to miscarriage. Due to its anti coagulant properties, turmeric is not advisable to expectant mothers, since it may bring about bleeding complications during childbirth.
High Risk of Gall Stones: Among the more serious Side effects of turmeric include complications in gallstones. People with painful gallstones have been advised to refrain from turmeric use, since it has been known to worsen the situation.
Obstructive Jaundice: Another of the Side effects of turmeric is the complications it brings about in people who suffer from obstructive jaundice. Although turmeric itself does not bring about obstructive jaundice or painful gallstones, it has been shown to have an adverse effect on those who suffer from these conditions, making the conditions worsen with time. It is therefore advisable for people who suffer from various medical conditions consult with their doctor before they begin taking any herbal substances or supplements.
Can Retard Blood Clotting: Turmeric has been known to have mild anti coagulant properties. Among the Side effects of turmeric related to this include the risk of excessive bleeding in case of cuts or injuries. This is among the more dangerous side effects of turmeric since it can be fatal and if left unchecked can lead to death. Among all the Side effects of turmeric, this poses the greatest risk, especially to people who suffer from hemophilia, since their blood clotting abilities are already weak, therefore the introduction of an anticoagulant such as turmeric can be fatal.
The Side effects of turmeric on pregnant mothers and the unborn child are not known, and thus it would be better for pregnant mothers to steer clear of turmeric during the period of their pregnancy.
In conclusion, we reiterate that the Side effects of turmeric are normally rare and far between, and the only way to determine if it would be safe to consume turmeric would be to consult with a doctor, taking into consideration one’s medical history.